Nami Island

 island, movie / film / TV location

Nami Island was formed as the result of the construction of Cheongpyeong Dam in 1944. The island is 430,000 square meters in area, and approximately 4 km in diameter.

The name of the island originates from General Nami, who died at the age of 28 after being falsely accused of treason during the reign of King Sejo of the Joseon Dynasty, and is said to be burried here. The general was a young courageous soldier during the Joseon Dynasty who suppressed a riot and was was promoted to Byeongjopanseo (Minister of National Defense).

Winter Sonata, the 2002 Korean drama credited with kicking off the Korean Wave (Hallyu) was filmed on Nami Island (and Chuncheon). The famous 'first kiss' was set on Nami Island as well as were other important scenes in the drama. Tourists come from all over Asia to retrace the star-crossed lovers steps.

The privately owned Nami Island whimsically declared its cultural independence in March of 2006 and re-named itself the Naminara Republic. The Naminara Republic is an imaginary country, but it has developed its own passport, currency, stamp and telephone card. Naminara Republic promotes the establishment of Naminara in other countries. A "passport" (in the form of a admission ticket) issued from Naminara, is required to enter the Nami Island.